The Real Estate and Open Space Committee is pivoting its strategy to protect town-owned land by joining forces with the Harwich Conservation Trust (HCT) to formalize the custody of sensitive parcels. During the June 20 meeting, HCT Executive Director Michael Lach proposed a partnership to evaluate properties currently under Select Board control that function as conservation land but lack permanent legal protection. Lach highlighted successful models in neighboring Brewster, where a similar effort resulted in the transfer of 180 acres to conservation oversight.

The Select Board has too many other responsibilities to make this a priority, Lach told the committee, suggesting that an ad hoc group of experts—including former town officials and land trust specialists—work to identify candidates for transfer. These parcels often sit in public water supply recharge areas or critical wildlife habitats, such as those near Hinckley’s Pond and the Herring River watershed. Motion Made by Margo to have the Real Estate and Open Space Committee work with the Harwich Conservation Trust and its ad hoc group to advance this project and appoint D. Callaghan and Margo to coordinate with them. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

The committee expressed frustration with past attempts to move the Select Board on these issues. Member Kathy noted that previous recommendations had stalled, asking, Are we just starting over? Chair David Callaghan argued that a multi-group coalition would apply more effective pressure. As a single entity, we haven't been successful, but a partnership changes that, Callaghan said. He also noted that $500,000 recently authorized by Town Meeting for owners unknown research could potentially assist in the deed work required for these transfers. Margo added that the shift is a matter of modernization, noting that many of these parcels ended up with the Select Board simply because it was the obvious place at the time, but it may not make sense now.

Select Board representative Mark Keller, attending his first meeting with the committee, expressed support for the initiative. I need to be educated on this too, but from what I see here, it makes great sense, Keller said. The Select Board doesn't necessarily have the expertise on conservation that you do. Keller also provided a brief update on the search for a new Town Administrator, noting that while a permanent hire could take eight months, a decision on an interim administrator is imminent as the current administration departs in two weeks.

Financial updates regarding town property were also central to the session. Margo reported that the Affordable Housing Trust has opted to sell parcels on Depot Street and Oak Street to replenish its reserves rather than pursuing them for development. The properties will likely be sold through a Request for Proposals (RFP) or based on appraised value. Additionally, the committee reviewed and corrected its March records to ensure accuracy regarding long-term projects. Committee Clerk Carol noted specific corrections to the timeline for the Penrose development, which is currently estimated as a five to nine-year process before construction. Motion Made by Margo to accept the minutes of March 21, 2025, with corrections and the Affordable Housing Trust attachment. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

In his closing remarks, Callaghan highlighted the successful protection of Pine Island, also known as TRS Island, in the Herring River. He expressed relief that the unique property would be preserved for conservation rather than developed, stating he was glad to see it protected rather than having a McMansion built on it. The committee is scheduled to reorganize for the new fiscal year during its July 18 meeting.